A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers La Rochelle vs. Kotor for Food, Old Town, Hiking, and Couples

Should you visit La Rochelle or Kotor?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

Should I visit La Rochelle or Kotor? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

La Rochelle

La Rochelle is a quaint, charming, and peaceful coastal town. As this is a charming small town, visitors also come to explore the sights and local activities. It's also known for nightlife, food, and beaches.

Kotor

Kotor is a charming, historic, and peaceful coastal town. You'll find plenty of local activities in this small town. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. It also has a unique and quaint vibe that attracts lots of visitors. Visitors also love the hiking, food, and scuba diving and snorkeling.

La Rochelle and Kotor: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in La Rochelle or Kotor?

Travelers will usually find more to do in La Rochelle. Although La Rochelle and Kotor are popular destinations, La Rochelle has more sights and attractions for tourists. La Rochelle is very popular for its museums, nightlife, and shopping, while Kotor attracts visitors for its resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, hiking, small town charm, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere. La Rochelle is famous for its medieval towers, maritime history, and beautiful setting. It is also well known for The Old Port. Kotor is famous for its medieval old town and its dramatic setting on the coastline surrounded by limestone cliffs.

How is La Rochelle different from Kotor?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Kotor and La Rochelle. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in La Rochelle or Kotor?

La Rochelle is well known for its museums and landmarks. However, Kotor does not have museums and landmarks.

Many visitors head to La Rochelle specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. Filled with history, the town itself is like a living museum. Within town there are many sights such as the Vieux Port, La Rochelle Aquarium, Musée d'Histoire Naturelle, and Musée du Nouveau Monde de La Rochelle.

Kotor does not have museums and landmarks.

Is the Food Better in La Rochelle or Kotor? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Both La Rochelle and Kotor offer world-class local cuisine and restaurants.

For foodies, La Rochelle is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. It may be small, but its filled with delicious cafes, bistros, and local restaurants. Seafood is the obvious choice in this coastal town and many visitors head to Vieux Port to eat, as many restaurants there offer waterfront views. If you want something a little less touristy, head to the St. Nicolas District, which was the town's former fishing district. Rue de la Fourche is also a charming road with many places to grab a bite or a drink. Or head to Rue St Jean-du-Perot, which is just off the old port.

Kotor has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. Food is fresh and hearty, with many dishes including meats, cheeses, and bread. Popular local dishes include börek, black risotto, and pasulj (a type of baked beans prepared with meats and spices). Seafood is an obvious choice around town as well. Ask for whatever is fresh and enjoy a delicious meal. There are also a number of dessert cafes where you can enjoy pastries at a very affordable price.

Is La Rochelle or Kotor Better for Nightlife?

La Rochelle is very good for nightlife. However, Kotor is not particularly known for nightlife and partying.

La Rochelle has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. While it's known as a peaceful, seaside town, you'll still find wine bars, pubs, and even a club or two around town.

Kotor doesn't have the most active nightlife scene. It has some of the best nightlife in Montenegro, but outside of the summer months you'll find things are very calm. Head to the old town for the highest concentration of bars and clubs.

Is La Rochelle or Kotor Better for Resorts?

Kotor is adequate for its luxury resorts. However, La Rochelle is not a resort destination.

Not known for its high-end resorts, Kotor offers a few options. The town has mostly boutique hotels and apartments, particularly if you want to stay in old town.

La Rochelle is not a resort destination.

Is La Rochelle or Kotor Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Kotor is a popular place for its diving and snorkeling. However, La Rochelle is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Kotor has a few good snorkeling spots. It's possible to book snorkeling trips with a local vendor, or you can pack your own mask and snorkel and venture into the water on your own.

La Rochelle is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is La Rochelle or Kotor Better for Beaches?

For a relaxing beach holiday, both La Rochelle and Kotor are nice choices.

La Rochelle is a good option for a beach vacation. There are three main beaches in town that each attract a crowd on warm summer days. Plage de la Concurrence, Plage Chef de Baie, and Plage des Minimes are the closest beaches to La Rochelle, and they are popular for sunbathing and water sports. They have a mix of sand, pebbles, and cliffside views that attract locals and tourists alike.

Many people head to Kotor to enjoy the beach. Like many parts of the Mediterranean, the beaches are rocky and pebbly. Many of the beaches are small and quiet, giving them a personal and discovered vibe which many travelers appreciate.

Is La Rochelle or Kotor Better for its Old Town?

It's fun to wander around the world-class old towns in both La Rochelle and Kotor.

La Rochelle has a world-famous historical area. The old town is filled with wandering cobblestone streets, charming squares, and cafes that spill into the street.

The historic old town of Kotor is revered around the world. The city walls and compact historic area make the old town a unique place to explore.

Is La Rochelle or Kotor Better for Hiking?

Kotor is very popular for hiking. Also, La Rochelle is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal town for the nearby hiking options.

People visit Kotor specifically for its hiking, as the natural beauty is well-known. The dramatic cliffs and sea views create some of the most beautiful coastal hikes that you'll find. Trails range from walking paths to more strenuous routes like the Ladder of Kotor Hike, which has many switchbacks and stunning views.

Many people include a hike when visiting La Rochelle. There are many coastal walks just outside of town that take you along the scenic coastline. It's beautiful to stroll through the countryside and pass through many quaint villages.

Is the Shopping Better in La Rochelle or Kotor?

La Rochelle is very good for shopping. However, Kotor is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

La Rochelle is a great destination for shopping. The old town is filled with boutique shops as well as some name brands. Another fun place to visit is Les Halles, which is an indoor market with fresh produce, seafood, and many local cheeses.

Kotor is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is La Rochelle or Kotor Better for Families?

Kids will enjoy a visit to either La Rochelle or Kotor.

La Rochelle offers lots of family activities. It's a coastal town with a port that you can explore. There's also an aquarium and many great seafood restaurants. A nice day trip is to go to l'Ile de Ré, which has nice beaches, some with playgrounds.

Kotor is a family-friendly place to visit. Kids will enjoy wandering the streets of old town, exploring the city's fortress, or making their way around the city walls. There are a few beaches to explore, but they are a bit rocky. It's also fun to get out on the water on a boat ride.

Is La Rochelle or Kotor Better for Couples?

La Rochelle is a world-class destination for romance. Also, Kotor is still popular, but not quite as popular for its romantic activities.

For those traveling as a couple, La Rochelle has plenty to offer. This beautiful coastal town is seeped in history. There are beautiful squares, romantic parks, and cobblestone streets that you can wander down. It's also nice to take a coastal walk before grabbing dinner at a local seafood restaurant.

Kotor is a great coastal town if you're traveling as a couple. The charming old town, picturesque views, and quaint personality of the town make this a great couple's get away. Whether you want to lounge on the water's edge or soak up the unique culture, there are many hidden sides to the coastal town.

Is La Rochelle or Kotor Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Kotor is great for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, La Rochelle is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal town for backpackers.

Many backpackers visit Kotor. The town is affordable and reasonably accessible, making it a great option for backpackers. It's not as touristy as some of the more popular coastal towns in the area, so you can enjoy a bit of authenticity without spending big bucks.

La Rochelle is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. There aren't a ton of hostels in the area, but there are just enough that you should be able to find a place to stay.

Is La Rochelle or Kotor Better for Students?

La Rochelle is very good for students. However, Kotor is not popular with students.

La Rochelle is popular with students. It's a touristy city with a lot for students to see and do, but the atmosphere is generally quiet and peaceful.

Kotor is not popular with students.

Is La Rochelle or Kotor Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

La Rochelle is very good for its public transit. However, Kotor is not particularly known for times when you don't have a car.

You'll find some public transit in La Rochelle, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. Public transit around town is operated by Yeló, and mostly consists of buses.

Public transit is mostly limited in Kotor. Cars aren't allowed in the old town, but you can travel to nearby town's by bus. Most leave from the town's main bus station with higher frequency during the summer months.

Is La Rochelle or Kotor a more walkable city?

Kotor is very popular for its high level of walkability. Also, La Rochelle is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal town for its ease of walking around.

Kotor is a very easy coastal town to get around on foot. The old town is best explored on foot.

La Rochelle is a very walkable destination. It's filled with meandering cobblestone streets that are best explored on foot. Most places around town can be explored on foot.

For even more information, also check out Is La Rochelle Worth Visiting? and Is Kotor Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Kotor or La Rochelle?

How long in La Rochelle or Kotor?

It's fun to spend time in either La Rochelle or Kotor. In our opinion, La Rochelle has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in La Rochelle than Kotor. In general, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for La Rochelle, and 3-4 days is enough time in Kotor.

Families should spend more time in Kotor than La Rochelle. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Kotor, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in La Rochelle than Kotor. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in La Rochelle that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Kotor than La Rochelle if your budget allows for it. With a larger number of budget-friendly sights, good nightlife, and active things to do, anyone traveling on a budget would have a good time in Kotor.

One day in La Rochelle or Kotor?

Even though La Rochelle is a small town, it has plenty of activities to choose from. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. Lots of people come for the food. This coastal town offers a variety of activities to choose from. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

Visitors enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling when visiting the beautiful coastal town of Kotor. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A weekend in La Rochelle or Kotor?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in La Rochelle. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Visitors enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and food when visiting the beautiful small town of Kotor. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. This coastal town offers something for everyone. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Five days in La Rochelle or Kotor?

La Rochelle is a fun place to experience. La Rochelle is a small town, so it's a great destination if you're short on time. Lots of people come for the food. Visiting the old town is also a must. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

The scenic coastal town of Kotor offers food and scuba diving and snorkeling. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

A week in La Rochelle or Kotor?

La Rochelle is a small town, so you can explore the area with less time. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Lots of people come for the food. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Many people enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and food when visiting Kotor. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Paris, The Best 10-Day Tours from Paris, The Best Luxury Tours to Montenegro, and The Best Budget Tours to Montenegro.

When comparing the travel costs between La Rochelle and Kotor, we can see that La Rochelle is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in Europe, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is La Rochelle Expensive? and Is Kotor Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, La Rochelle or Kotor?

La Rochelle has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Kotor. When comparing the sizes of La Rochelle and Kotor, keep in mind that a larger population does not always imply the destination has more attractions or better activities. So, always research the type of place that you want to visit along with the activities and attractions that interest you.

When is the best time to visit La Rochelle or Kotor?

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit La Rochelle or Kotor in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to La Rochelle as well as Kotor. The beaches, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to La Rochelle this time of year. Additionally, many travelers come to Kotor for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, La Rochelle is generally cooler than Kotor. Daily temperatures in La Rochelle average around 20°C (67°F), and Kotor fluctuates around 26°C (80°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Kotor. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in La Rochelle this time of the year. In the summer, La Rochelle often gets less sunshine than Kotor. La Rochelle gets 267 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Kotor receives 341 hours of full sun.

La Rochelle usually gets less rain in July than Kotor. La Rochelle gets 35 mm (1.4 in) of rain, while Kotor receives 47 mm (1.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit La Rochelle or Kotor in the Autumn?

Both Kotor and La Rochelle are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to La Rochelle for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the small town atmosphere. Also, many visitors come to Kotor in the autumn for the hiking trails, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area.

La Rochelle is cooler than Kotor in the autumn. The daily temperature in La Rochelle averages around 15°C (59°F) in October, and Kotor fluctuates around 17°C (63°F).

It's quite sunny in Kotor. La Rochelle usually receives less sunshine than Kotor during autumn. La Rochelle gets 141 hours of sunny skies, while Kotor receives 203 hours of full sun in the autumn.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Kotor. In October, La Rochelle usually receives less rain than Kotor. La Rochelle gets 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Kotor receives 174 mm (6.9 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit La Rochelle or Kotor in the Winter?

Both Kotor and La Rochelle during the winter are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to La Rochelle in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Kotor for the cuisine during these months.

In the winter, La Rochelle is a little warmer than Kotor. Typically, the winter temperatures in La Rochelle in January average around 7°C (44°F), and Kotor averages at about 6°C (42°F).

In the winter, La Rochelle often gets less sunshine than Kotor. La Rochelle gets 72 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Kotor receives 121 hours of full sun.

Kotor gets a good bit of rain this time of year. La Rochelle usually gets less rain in January than Kotor. La Rochelle gets 81 mm (3.2 in) of rain, while Kotor receives 186 mm (7.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit La Rochelle or Kotor in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both La Rochelle and Kotor. Most visitors come to La Rochelle for the beaches and the small town charm during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Kotor because of the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty.

In April, La Rochelle is generally cooler than Kotor. Daily temperatures in La Rochelle average around 11°C (52°F), and Kotor fluctuates around 14°C (58°F).

La Rochelle usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Kotor during spring. La Rochelle gets 187 hours of sunny skies, while Kotor receives 194 hours of full sun in the spring.

Kotor receives a lot of rain in the spring. In April, La Rochelle usually receives less rain than Kotor. La Rochelle gets 47 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Kotor receives 154 mm (6.1 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Kotor and La Rochelle